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Never Give Up

“Kenia Lobo: Window Twelve.”

My stomach flipped. “Why do you want to return to the U.S.A?” the consulado asked me. “I need to go back to school and then attend college,” I responded. Staring down at my documents he said, “Your application is on file. This is a long process. There is no guarantee you will be approved.” I asked questions but the answers were all the same – “Wait.”

I was disappointed. When I walked in the house, my aunt said, “You didn’t get it right?” My cousin replied, “She will never get it.” I looked at all of them angry and thought, “Why can’t they have a positive attitude?” I thought of giving up. I felt discouraged, but determined. My family never supported my dream. They always said, “Why don’t you do something less difficult? Just get a job. You won’t be able to afford college anyway.” However, I always told them I would not give up. I had to go back.

At the age of eleven, I came to the United States illegally. I knew my status would interfere with my goal of attending college. I was forced to return to El Salvador my junior year in attempt to get my residency.

After six months of waiting, calling and visiting, I arrived at the embassy once again. I walked to the front desk and said I had to see someone. I never felt so helpless, lonely and stupid in my life. I thought, “Why am I here again? These people must think I am crazy – maybe I am. I should just leave.” These thoughts boiled inside me, but I remained. I was signaled inside.
I told the consulado, “I have been waiting six months for my residency,” I was on the verge of tears. “I need to finish high school in America to attend college.” This was the day he made me wait eternally but actually came back. He said, “You are lucky because we got letters from your teachers, and the embassy reported your case because of your many calls. You will get your residency in a couple days.” I stared blankly at the American Flag behind him, envisioning myself graduating high school and attending college. My head felt light. I cried tears of joy and realized I had finally done it.
My experiences trying to return to the USA made me realize that I have to fight for my dreams. Nobody is going to make it easy. I will face difficult situations and discouraging people. Today I am more determined than ever to pursue my goals. My passion, my determination, and my perseverance will make me succeed in accomplishing my goals.

Submitted by Kenia Lobo